Grand Prix Gold: Italy 1988

AUTOSPORT relives the great races of the past: Once again McLaren was in control, this time in Ferrari's back yard. That was until divine intervention from guest Williams driver Jean-Louis Schlesser

"Was a present, sure," said an exultant Italian afterwards. "But it went to the right man, at the right time, in the right place."

When it comes to motor racing, Ayrton Senna isn't heavy on presents, but on Sunday he gave one to Gerhard Berger, Ferrari and Monza. Going into lap 50, with only a couple to go, Ayrton thought he'd done it about right. He had led from the first corner, seen Prost retire, allowed the Ferraris to come back at him, but only up to a point. This one was safe. It would be his eighth of the season – a record – and virtually guarantee him the world championship.